App: BikeLinks
Hosted in ArcGIS Online:
Mission Statement
The City of Surrey’s Climate Change Action Strategy states that “the science is unequivocal, excess greenhouse gases from human activities are driving warming of the atmosphere, oceans and land, resulting in widespread disturbances to both natural and human systems” (1). To begin to tackle such a complex and global issue, Surrey and other municipalities around Metro Vancouver have developed their own plans and objectives for tackling climate change. One key theme that links these cities’ plans is one of the pillars of sustainability in urban areas, transportation, more specifically, active and public transportation. For example, a key target for the city of Vancouver is to ensure that two thirds of all trips are made by walking, cycling and public transit by 2040 (2).
However, “while [active transportation like] cycling is growing in popularity, many people are discouraged from riding because it seems dangerous or impractical. There are many challenges, including a lack of direct routes, finding convenient and secure parking, weather, and topography, but the biggest concern for most people is motor vehicle traffic” (3). This tension between the existing status-quo of car-dependency and a burgeoning cycling and mass transit commuter culture is the main limiting factor that prevents Metro Vancouver from becoming more sustainable. In other words, for cities to truly meet their sustainability goals, the cycling and transit infrastructure must be in place to meet such burgeoning demand. One often overlooked aspect in the development of this infrastructure is the connection between cycling and transit.
BikeLinks seeks to unite cycling and transit infrastructure in one app. We feel that the lack of information about multi-modal transportation serves as a bottleneck that limits Metro Vancouver’s ability to have truly sustainable transit. Resources exist for both cycling and transit but a harmonious, detailed and interactive resource that informs the public about the connection of these two systems does not. We aim to bridge the gap between these two worlds so that biking and transit in tandem can become a core component in the lives of many more Metro Vancouver citizens.
Video Presentation
Documentation
Team Members
Ethan Lo: Hello! I was born and raised in Vancouver, BC. I’m currently enrolled in a GIS Advanced Diploma from the British Columbia Institute of Technology. Previously, I did a bachelor's degree in human geography from Simon Fraser University alongside a minor in political science and two certificates in urban studies and GIS. Since I was young, geography had always been an interest of mine because of how places can relate to one another across space and time. My interest in GIS comes from my curiosity in cities, transportation and energy. I’m excited to work on the ECCE App Challenge and wish all my fellow participants a fun week!
Brendan Kelly: Hey! I’m currently enrolled in the GIS Advanced Diploma program at BCIT. Previously, I completed my undergrad in Computer Science at UBC in 2024. Since I was little I’ve been obsessed with geography, maps and cities so I’m excited to pursue a career in GIS, combining my interests and technical expertise. Outside of school, you might find training for my next marathon at the local track. I’m super excited to compete in the App Challenge and I wish everyone good luck!
Jon Atienza: Bio Hi! I am currently enrolled in the GIS Advanced Diploma program at BCIT. I did my undergraduate degree at Concordia University where I first found my interest in GIS. My specific interests lie in business GIS and urban planning. When I’m not in class, you will most likely see me somewhere outdoors or finding new places to eat in Vancouver. I hope everyone has fun and the best of luck during the app challenge!